Yes it’s true, to my delight Independent is in the pink for breast cancer awareness month. The pink ribbon within our header is in celebration of the many battles won and the beautiful l lives lived in spite of this deadly disease. Yet, this pink ribbon is also in remembrance of the many lives lost on this battle field we call breast cancer. Make no mistake about it – millions of women around the world are fighting for their lives, some of them winning and others aren’t as fortunate.
I won’t bother to give you the numbers; you may already have heard them over and over again through the years. What I will give you is a bit of advice and prevention education from the website of the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Can physical activity reduce the risk of breast cancer?
Exercise pumps up the immune system and lowers estrogen levels. With as little as four hours of exercise per week, a woman can begin to lower her risk of breast cancer.
Can drinking alcohol increase the risk of breast cancer?
One or two drinks a day has been shown to slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. The greater the levels consumed, the higher the risk.
Is there a link between oral contraceptives and breast cancer?
There is an increased risk of breast cancer for women under 35 who have been using birth control pills for more than ten years.
Does a family history of breast cancer put someone at a higher risk?
If you have a grandmother, mother, sister, or daughter who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, this does put you in a higher risk group. Have a baseline mammogram at least five years before the age of breast cancer onset in any close relatives, or starting at age 35. See your physician at any sign of unusual symptoms.
How often should I do a breast self-exam (BSE)?
Give yourself a breast self-exam at least once a month. Look for any changes in breast tissue, such as changes in size, a lump, dimpling or puckering of the breast, or a discharge from the nipple. If you discover a persistent lump in your breast or any changes in breast tissue, it is very important that you see a physician immediately. However, 8 out of 10 lumps are benign, or not cancerous.
How Often Should I Go To My Doctor For A Checkup?
You should have a physical every year. If any unusual symptoms or changes in your breasts occur before your scheduled visit, do not hesitate to see the doctor immediately.
May we never take for granted the lives of our mother, daughter, sisters, girlfriends, and women friends. Women, never forget the effectiveness of knowing our own bodies and self-inspection. Here’s to our breast health. Go forth in celebration and remembrance.